Our history
The Founding by Roel and Wil (1970)
The Whaler has a rich history that begins with Roel Trip's vision. Roel was born in Drenthe in 1939 and grew up in a baker's family. After years of practising the bakery trade, Roel chose a different path. In 1969, he moved to Terschelling with his wife Wil and their children to convert a farmhouse in Lies into a hotel.
The farm, owned by a former whaler, inspired the name of the hotel: De Walvisvaarder. In 1970, Roel and Wil opened the doors of their modest 12-room hotel. Although small and simple in the beginning, the hotel soon grew into a popular destination. The hotel's kitchen was run by Wil, who prepared simple but tasty meals every evening, while Roel focused on connecting with guests. The unique atmosphere of homeliness and hospitality soon attracted a steady stream of returning guests.
Growth and Renewal
Over the years, the hotel continued to grow. Step by step, Roel and Wil renovated the accommodation. Every year they invested in improvements, such as installing showers and toilets in the rooms, which was a novelty on Terschelling at the time. Their dedication and entrepreneurship ensured that De Walvisvaarder became a household name on the island.
Over the years, the hotel continued to grow. Step by step, Roel and Wil renovated the accommodation. Every year they invested in improvements, such as installing showers and toilets in the rooms, which was a novelty on Terschelling at the time. Their dedication and entrepreneurship ensured that De Walvisvaarder became a household name on the island.
The takeover by Dick and Ilma (2002)
In 2002, Roel and Wil transferred the hotel to their daughter Ilma and her husband Dick. The new owner duo built on the solid foundation that Roel and Wil had laid. Under their leadership, the hotel was completely renovated in 2019 with a focus on sustainability. The old building was replaced by modern, energy-efficient accommodation with solar panels and heat pumps, making the business future-proof.
The Future with Bram (2024)
In 2024, grandson Bram will return to Terschelling to take over the family business. Having worked for years in leading hotels in Brussels, Amsterdam and Stockholm, Bram is looking forward to putting his international experience to use at De Walvisvaarder. With a strong foundation laid by his grandparents and parents, Bram is determined to continue the tradition of hospitality and further grow the business.
The Whaler: Ready for the Future
The Whaler remains true to the hospitality and warmth that Roel and Wil once created, and now combines it with modern facilities and sustainable operations. The company is ready for the future, while keeping the memory of its roots and the special history of the Trip family.
